Latest Reports Suggest Fatal Truck Accidents Are On the Rise

Big rig accidents can have a devastating effect on the lives of all involved in the accident.

In a recent report by CBS News, it was revealed that the number of fatal truck accidents is on the rise. The report suggested that the increase in the number of fatal accidents can be attributed to the fact that most truck tires are not suitable for handling maximum constant speeds exceeding 75 mph, but many truck operators across the nation exceed that limit and travel for long distances on expressways.

An Increase in Big Rig Accidents

As more and more truckers exceed this limit, federal investigators believe this is causing the increased number of big rig accidents. The report also revealed that in the time period of 2009-2013, buses and large trucks were responsible for as many as 14,000 fatal motor vehicle accidents across the United States. Of these deaths, 223 were caused by heavy truck tires.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a large number of tire blowouts were a result of the combination of lack of maintenance and high speeds. The NHTSA also stated that most trucks are rated at 75 mph and none of the truck tires are rated above 81 mph. Some experts also believe that state laws are also responsible for the spike in fatal truck accidents because some states have speeds at 80 mph.

The American Trucking Association (ATA) is also making efforts to combat the problem of overspeeding by truck drivers. The association states that speed limits beyond 65 mph in any state can be extremely dangerous. The ATA has asked the federal government to regulate the speed limits using electronic limiters that would restrict the truck’s speed at the recommended limit of 65 mph.

Limiting the Speed Limit

About 70 percent of trucking companies limit the speed of their drivers. This means, 30 percent of the companies still allow the drivers to drive at high speed, making the roads dangerous and increasing the risk of a fatal truck accident. The NHTSA is taking steps to prevent these accidents by making rules that change the labeling requirements and require speed limits on large trucks. This initiative would prevent truck driver negligence and make the roads safer for everyone.

Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer

Big rig accidents can have a devastating effect on the lives of all involved in the accident. Many of these accidents are the result of negligent or reckless driving at high speeds on interstates and highways. At high speeds, it becomes extremely difficult for a driver to control the vehicle and the driver has less time to respond to exigencies. By putting a practical limit on the speed, many accidents can be prevented.

If someone close to you has been injured or killed in a big rig accident, contact a Chicago truck accident lawyer from Willens Law Offices to understand the legal options available.